Caesarean Sections – The Journey
December 7, 2021
The first six weeks postpartum is considered a “recovery” period due to the high level of strain your body has been put through – no matter how you gave birth! Looking after a new baby is hard for all parents, but it can be harder when you are recovering from a caesarean section.
The time it takes to recover from a c-section does vary from woman to woman, but we wanted to give you some tips to help with your recovery in the first 6 weeks:
- Ask family or friends to help (or if you can afford it, organise paid help) so you can get as much rest as you can.
- Do not lift any weight that is heavier than your baby and don’t lift anything that causes you pain.
- Do your pelvic floor exercises. Even though you had a c-section, your lower abdominal muscles and pelvic floor muscles will still need strengthening.
- Go for a mild walk every day, not just for physical health- you will notice this has emotional health benefits as well.
- Eat a high-fibre diet to avoid constipation.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Use a wheat bag or hot water bottle on your wound.
- Avoid sex until you feel comfortable.
- Don’t be worried about numbness or itching around the scar, this is normal.
- Avoid driving a car until your wound has healed.
- Keep your wound clean and dry.
- Call your doctor if you notice signs of infection (such as bleeding, fluid, or drainage; separation around the edges; or increased swelling, redness, or tenderness).
Call POGS on (08) 6270 0123 or email: reception@pogs.com.au if you need to make an appointment.
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